Economic development is a means to reclaim sovereignty, generate sustainable revenue, and create opportunities for future generations. The information below provides a starting point, offering resources and actionable strategies to help your community embark on a prosperous economic journey.
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Training & Tools
13 Things You Should Know About Economic Development
PowerPoint presentation with general recommendations for Economic Development produced by an economic development consulting agency EDCD Consulting.
Building Self-Reliant Communities
Compiled by Global Indigenous Trust and Cando, this guide offers practical, cost-effective solutions to help communities become self-sufficient, from gardening and food preservation to renewable energy and water systems.
Community Assessment Matrix
The Communities Matrix is a tool designed to help economic development officers (EDOs) identify and understand Indigenous communities that consider the economic, social, cultural and environmental concerns of a community.
Community Disaster Recovery & Restart
Find tools and resources to help communities prepare for disasters, and guidance for economic developers to enhance community resilience through effective disaster preparedness strategies.
Community Self-Assessment
What economic development assets does your community already have? What do you need to move forward with community economic development? Take this community self-assessment to find out.
Promoting Food Sovereignty & Strengthening Communities
This presentation explores how different communities are working to promote food sovereignty and access resources.
Starting a First Nation Economic Development Strategic Plan
Understand how to start a community Economic Development Strategy plan in this PowerPoint with clear explanations and graphics.
Certification
Economic Development Opportunity
Connect
Success Stories
Economic Development Awards
In 1995 the Cando Economic Developer of the Year Award was created to recognize and promote recent or long-standing Indigenous economic development initiatives throughout Canada.
Interview with Chief Louie, Osoyoos First Nation, British Columbia
Chief Louie discusses the development of the Osoyoos First Nation’s business ventures, including the $100 million Nk’Mip Resort, and the importance of realistic expectations in partnerships.
Interview with Vaughn Sunday, Akwesasne First Nation, Ontario
Vaughn Sunday describes how the Akwesasne First Nation has used partnerships to successfully develop projects such as a subdivision and a tobacco quota system. He also discusses challenges which taught valuable lessons.
Stronger Together: First Nations Municipal Partnership
Through CEDI, Kebaowek First Nation (formerly Eagle Village First Nation), the Town of Témiscaming, and the Municipality of Kipawa developed a tripartite friendship, a shared tourism strategy and started exploring a coordinated approach to regional economic development.